Governor Baker Proclaims May 15, 2015 “Plant Something Day”
EEA Secretary Matthew Beaton Celebrates with Tree Planting at Elementary School
CHARLEMONT– May 15, 2015
Governor Baker has proclaimed today, May 15, 2015, “Plant Something Day” to support the Commonwealth’s many flower and nursery growers. In celebration, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Matthew Beaton and Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) Commissioner John Lebeaux joined state and local officials for an apple tree planting ceremony at Hawlemont Regional Elementary School in Charlemont this morning.
“A strong and vibrant agriculture industry helps keep our communities healthy and our economy strong,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “I am proud to proclaim today Plant Something Day to honor the contributions Massachusetts’ flower and nursery growers make to the Commonwealth.”
“By declaring today Plant Something Day, the Baker-Polito Administration continues its commitment to the environment and its support for Massachusetts’ vital agriculture industry,” said EEA Secretary Matthew Beaton. “I urge everyone to get outside and plant something today. It’s a great way to spend time in nature, help the environment and support our local agricultural economy.”
There are 1,039 Massachusetts farms in floriculture, nursery, greenhouse and sod, employing more than 4,000 workers. The industry generated $144 million in sales last year, a third of total agricultural sales in Massachusetts.
Plant Something MA is an annual statewide initiative that encourages communities across the Commonwealth to support their local nurseries, garden centers, landscapers and floriculture growers by purchasing and planting something. The campaign is organized by the Massachusetts Flower Growers Association (MFGA) and theMassachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA). The apple tree planted today was donated by Wanczyk Nursery in Hadley, MA and installed by Snow and Son’s of Greenfield, MA.
“Plant Something Day is a wonderful opportunity to remind Massachusetts residents that the long planting season is now upon us,” said DAR Commissioner John Lebeaux. “From now through mid-fall, Massachusetts greenhouses, garden centers and nurseries are stocked with quality assorted plant material suited for Massachusetts conditions. They have plants to provide beautiful flowers, wonderful fragrance, interesting foliage, cooling shade, or something tasty and nutritious, while at the same time improving our environment.”
“The Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association is honored to participate with Secretary Beaton and Commissioner Lebeaux in the May 15th Plant Something Day,” said MNLA Executive Director Rena Sumner. “Planting something is good for you, your community, and the local economy.”